Acute decompensated heart failure is a clinical syndrome that occurs due to the sudden onset or worsening of congestive heart failure. It is a serious and life-threatening condition that requires immediate medical intervention. Some common synonyms for acute decompensated heart failure include acute heart failure, congestive heart failure exacerbation, acute pulmonary edema, and severe heart failure. Other related terms include cardiogenic shock, acute cardiorenal syndrome, acute coronary syndrome, and acute respiratory distress syndrome. Regardless of the terminology used, this condition requires prompt diagnosis and treatment to prevent further complications and improve patient outcomes.